Location: Amarillo, Texas
Education: Region 8 Dyslexia Training Center, Mount Pleasant, Texas; M.Ed. Letourneau University, Longview, Texas; B.Sc Cameron University; Lawton, Oklahoma
Years Experience Teaching: 26
Years Experience In Dyslexia: 3
Teaching Experience
With over 26 years of experience in elementary education and specializing in dyslexia intervention, I am dedicated to supporting students, faculty, and the school community. My teaching background includes instructing self-contained kindergarten, second, and third grades, as well as teaching reading and writing in third through fifth grades. Additionally, I have served as an interventionist at the junior and high school levels, focusing specifically on dyslexia therapy for the past three years.
Throughout my career, I have developed a deep passion for education and have gained extensive expertise in designing and implementing diverse curricula across various subjects. I excel in motivating students and educators alike, employing positive encouragement and interactive classroom strategies to reinforce concepts effectively.
Professional Affiliations
Academic Language Therapy Association (ALTA)
Programs Trained In
Take Flight (Scottish Rite Hospital and Luke Waits Center for Dyslexia and Learning Disorders)
Reading By Design (ESC Region 4)
Age Range You Feel Most Comfortable With:
I am comfortable with individuals of any age who are eager and motivated to learn.
Why did you decide to become a CALT?
I am currently in the process of training to become a Certified Academic Language Therapist. This training is designed to prepare me to provide diagnostic, explicit, and methodical multisensory structured language interventions. My goal is to enhance the accuracy, knowledge, and independence of my dyslexic students. Pursuing this certification reflects my commitment to gaining comprehensive expertise and experience in order to make a meaningful difference in the lives of those under my instruction.
Favorite moment working with dyslexic students?
One of the highlights of my career was witnessing a dyslexic student experience a breakthrough in reading after receiving dedicated, multisensory instruction. Witnessing their joy and newfound confidence was incredibly rewarding and reinforced my passion for this work.
Your goal when working with kids with dyslexia?
My goal when working with children with dyslexia is to empower them with the skills, strategies, and confidence needed to overcome challenges in reading and writing. I aim to provide structured, multisensory interventions that cater to their individual learning styles, fostering not only academic growth but also a sense of accomplishment and self-belief. Ultimately, I strive to support their journey towards becoming independent and successful learners.
Your teaching style, personality?
As a teacher, my style is characterized by a structured and inclusive approach that focuses on individualized learning experiences. I believe in creating a supportive and positive classroom environment where every student feels valued and capable of succeeding.
My personality in the classroom is enthusiastic and empathetic. I am passionate about education and dedicated to helping students reach their full potential. I strive to foster a love for learning by making lessons engaging and relevant to students’ lives. Additionally, I emphasize patience and understanding, especially when working with students who may face learning challenges like dyslexia. I believe in celebrating each student’s progress and encouraging a growth mindset that promotes resilience and self-confidence.
Any family details?
I am deeply blessed to have a loving husband, two daughters, two sons, a grandson, and another grandson on the way. My family is my greatest treasure, and they fill my heart with immense joy and gratitude every day.
Any extra anecdotal info you want to add?
I’m an animal lover at heart! I find great joy in caring for and watching over my dogs, Silkies (chickens), and (Sulcata) tortoise. I’m also fascinated by wildlife and enjoy any unexpected encounters with them.
